Owning commercial property comes with a lot of responsibility, and one of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects is understanding the exact legal description of your land. Whether you’re buying, selling, or developing commercial real estate, relying solely on documents or outdated plans can lead to costly disputes, regulatory issues, and construction delays.
That’s why a professional commercial land survey in Edmonton isn’t just a formality—it’s a vital step that ensures you know exactly what you own. Here’s why you shouldn’t trust your commercial property’s legal description without verifying it through a precise survey.
What Does a Legal Description Actually Tell You?
A legal description is a written summary that identifies your property’s boundaries and location, typically found in deeds or title documents. It might describe your property by lot number, metes and bounds, or reference points in land registries.
However, legal descriptions alone don’t guarantee accurate, up-to-date boundary information. Over time, records may be incomplete, boundaries may have shifted, or errors may have crept in—especially in older commercial properties or those that have been subdivided or reconfigured.
The Risks of Relying on Legal Descriptions Alone
Without a detailed commercial land survey in Edmonton, you could be facing several hidden risks:
- Boundary Disputes. Even minor discrepancies in boundary lines can cause disputes with neighbouring properties. Imagine discovering that part of your parking lot encroaches on adjacent land, or that a fence was built in the wrong spot.
- Zoning and Compliance Issues. Municipal regulations require precise adherence to setbacks, easements, and zoning laws. An inaccurate legal description could cause you to violate these rules unknowingly, leading to fines or mandated changes.
- Construction and Development Delays. If your commercial development is based on inaccurate property boundaries, building permits can be delayed or denied. Worse, you may have to tear down structures that encroach on neighbouring properties or protected zones.
- Financial and Legal Consequences. Errors in property description can affect financing, insurance, and even the resale value of your commercial property. Disputes can escalate to costly legal battles if not resolved early with proper documentation.
How a Commercial Land Survey in Edmonton Helps
A professional commercial land survey offers precise measurement and verification of your property’s boundaries using advanced technology and current records. Here’s what it provides:
- Accurate Boundary Mapping. Surveyors use GPS, total stations, and historical data to create an exact map of your property’s lines and corners.
- Identification of Encroachments and Easements. Surveys can reveal unauthorized encroachments or legal easements, helping you address these issues proactively.
- Clear Documentation for Municipal Compliance. The survey report and map provide evidence needed to secure building permits and meet local regulations.
- Peace of Mind. Knowing exactly where your property lines lie protects your investment and prevents future disputes.
When Should You Get a Commercial Land Survey?
It’s wise to commission a commercial land survey in Edmonton in several key situations:
- Before buying commercial property. Confirm the property’s boundaries before closing to avoid surprises.
- Prior to development or renovation. Ensure plans conform to exact property lines and zoning rules.
- When resolving boundary disputes. Obtain an unbiased, legally recognized survey to support negotiations or court cases.
- During property subdivision or sale. Accurately define parcels for sale or transfer.
Before making any investment, development, or legal decisions related to your commercial property, don’t skip this critical step. A survey safeguards your ownership, keeps you compliant with regulations, and helps you avoid expensive surprises down the road.
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